In a statement released to the media via the Royal Communications department it was confirmed the Duke of Edinburgh would honour previously scheduled public engagements up until August but would accept no new invitations for visits or engagements.

The Queen, however, will continue with her official engagements with the support of the rest of the Royal Family.

To mark their diamond wedding anniversary on Tuesday November 20, 2007 Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh re-visited Broadlands where they spent their wedding night (Image: Tim Graham/PA Wire)

It was already announced the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge would be relocating from Norfolk to London this year, and in the process taking on more royal duties.

In the statement from the palace, it said Prince Philip may still choose to attend certain public events from time to time.